Good Jobs for Autistic People | AUTISM IN ADULTS

[@samanthadelahunt3698]

I found out I’m autistic at 19. I had already worked fast food and retail, and the thought of college petrified me. And when I did go to college, I couldn’t do it. I had to drop out. So I became a jeweler. And there’s nothing else I could ever imagine myself doing. This is the job for me. I get to play with fire, hazardous chemicals, and I get to look at pretty rocks. Perfect job. 12/10

[@SunValen]

are there any certifications or qualifications employers need to do this? it sounds very nice

[@hyeni100]

What does your work day as a jeweler usually look like?

[@micosstar]

woah wow!

[@hannahowen1801]

That sounds like exactly the route I need to go down in life. People terrify me, fire gives me life!!

[@cuca_]

More info pleaseee

[@KaciCreates]

I’m crying right now because I thought i was the only one who couldn’t handle a real job. I spent my life raising kids instead because I couldn’t get or hold down jobs. I am 49 and just figured out recently I’m autistic, up until now I was sure there was something fundamentally wrong with me. Thank you for making this video, I can finally stop beating myself up for being a failure!

[@PraveenSrJ01]

Thank you so much for sharing

[@mommalion7028]

Just raising kids is harder than a real job, but no one can fire you, so i kind of get what you're saying. (I mean, I guess you can lose custody but usually that's REALLY extreme. You have to be either really incompetent or really unlucky as a mom to lose custody of your own kids. )

[@dumbdonny4824]

I feel this on such a deep level. I honestly don't even think I'm that amazing of a mom but for some reason that's felt like the only real thing I could do my whole life. Even things that I love and are my passions when it comes to making it into an actual job there's so many tiny details that steer me away from wanting to do it or even being able to do it. So I've always just felt like my only purpose would be to be a mom

[@ArtsyMegz_On_Etsy]

I am 36 and can't handle a normal job (because if I get a part-time job and do it well, managers will start giving me full-time hours, and then I crash and burn).

[@Floof1122]

same here!

[@xshadowscreamx]

Someone usually has to die before a position opens up at the library.

[@zohashahid30984]

😂😂😂😂

[@maylin1986]

Truth be told, that's 100% accurate. Especially with a lot of cushy jobs. As people get older, and if they happen to come upon a jewel of a job that's low stress and pays very well, they will not leave. They know anything else, they wouldn't be able to keep up with in old age. Makes perfect sense why they would stay. They done spent half their life being stressed and constantly hustling, that they know a bargain when they see it.

[@louisenobrega6183]

exaclty. or at the sworn translation office

[@RedRuneblade_Alt]

Or you need decades of experience

[@sonnyeclipse2227]

VERY true. Also depending on what kind of library you're working at you can very much end up burned out because you work with the public.

[@JustinaJayne]

My [horrible] therapist told me yesterday, that getting diagnosed doesn’t matter and that the world doesn’t care if I am ASD. Harsh. I am 31 and have been fighting since age 24 to get diagnosed. My past Drs told me they did not believe in female autism. I am so burned out and anxious and overwhelmed from all of the intense normal jobs I keep doing.

[@PraveenSrJ01]

That is just a horrible thing to say!!! She shouldn’t be a therapist

[@elizabethf8078]

Your therapist seems pretty toxic. I suggest finding a new one.

[@Laperdash]

Your current therapist is right and wrong. What she got right is that the world indeed doesn't care about your diagnosis. An employer isn't going to change it's environment to suit everyone's special needs. It's just NOT possible to do that for every single person on this planet. That's why every person, autistic or not, needs to find a job to THEIR needs, and not the other way around. What she got wrong here is that getting a diagnose is definitely important for you because again, this can seriously help you to find you a job that suits your needs. Female autism definitely exist. Females are just way better in masking. What a dumb ass therapist you had in the past. I'm sorry for that. You should demand another therapist as well. You should have a connection with your therapist, not some random idiot who bought his degree under a table in some dark corner of the black market.

[@garycooper9207]

My daughter and my good friend both are on the spectrum. My friend is female and has Asperger's. Some people are cruel and got no clue..

[@KT-uz4jq]

You need a new therapist, not one who minimizes your concerns and gaslights you.

[@meganm4877]

As an AuDHD person, “I don’t NOT want to do it; I just haven’t done it yet” is extremely relatable 🙃

[@reahallu]

im autistic and i have very severe agoraphobia and anxiety. i find working and interacting with people extremely difficult. My mother is not sympathetic and I'm basically on my own with no medication or financial help in any way. I am in college but almost homeless. its definitely hard out here but people like you who post things like this help so much. you make it all more manageable. thank you

[@clarimonde3613]

​@milkdreams5326this comment already generates anxiety I can assure

[@emilymcmurphy1590]

Do you have Medicaid access where you live?

[@jmvanzalinge5023]

I wish you the greatest luck! It is terrible when those who should be the most understanding of you are the least supportive.

[@Fernandohiggsboson]

Meet the college counselor, they will help you, trust me, best!

[@simonetrailor2280]

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a benefit that autistic adults may be eligible for if they have limited income and resources, and can show that their autism symptoms are severe enough to limit their ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates SSI payments by subtracting an individual's countable income from the maximum federal benefit rate. As of October 2023, the average SSI payment for autistic adults was $1,665.14 per month, with a maximum of $943.

[@_komiichan9509]

I self-diagnosed at 38. I’ve worked full-time as a data entry clerk for the past 13 years at a law firm. I sit in a tiny office by myself scanning documents and saving them into the system, I love it. I very rarely have to interact with people and my job is the same from day to day, so no surprises.

[@BaronMichaelDeBlone1066]

My last job (volunteering at a credit union) was primarily scanning with some data entry (which I had also previously done for district nurses/health visitors wages dept). I loved scanning which was great as nobody else wanted to do it. I just could not get used to working in an office with several other people and the politics that goes with it. Then came a round of redundancies anounced whereby my workload was going to increase. I didn't hang around for the increased stress that would have definately come with it - manager divided across two separate offices... . Aaarghhh nightmare, lemme out of here. When I worked in a medical library I had the place virtually to myself most days. Even when junior doctors were in there doing their research they were quiet using the computers. It was bliss and I got so much more done. Env is important.

[@rasmuspedersen3563]

OMG i would love that job😮

[@t.terrell7037]

This sounds good but some of us don’t get to know what the work environment will be like until we’re placed in it and then it’s just “ sick or swim”. I taught for 21 years and then after one year of teaching online just could not do it anymore. Now I’m trying to find something that pays close to what I made and haven’t found it. The “in the mean time” is bringing so much that I dislike to the surface that it’s what’s prompting me to check into a diagnosis… misophonia, hyperacusis, not wanting to chit chat, being extremely blunt…. which then makes me look like I’m not a “team player“ but a “ difficult “ employee🤔and making a third of what I was previously making.

[@chichirinuriko20]

Do you have to be in school for that I used to work at an office building many years ago but it was only for the summer

[@Traumatised311]

That's my dream job

[@leahgary1107]

I think that autistic people make fantastic teachers, artists, scientists, and honestly, they are great people to work with. 🙂🤙👒

[@thejuanderful]

Artist, teacher, and scientist are all things that called to me.

[@leahgary1107]

@@thejuanderful 🙂🤙And the world is a better place because of it...God bless you sweetie.

[@sharatainx3990]

To be honest that is very individual. There's autistic people I know that I would not want to have as teachers as teaching isn't just about being good at something and telling others how to do it. But you need social skills and be able to read other humans and be able to handle situations that not all with autism can do.Same goes for scientist. It's individual and a matter of how much it impact it has on your life. Scientist is also very.... broad. Being a "geek" and being able to sink deep into a topic doesn't mean you're a good scientist and there's a big difference in how scientists from different areas or even within the same area work. Some work more in groups than others, some need more people skills than others etc.

[@thejuanderful]

@@sharatainx3990 Yeah. If I tried to teach in my twenties it probably would have gone badly. Now I've had a lot of practice reading people, and I removed an empathy block. I don't think I could teach a big class though...

[@karminalumina]

I haven’t been diagnosed but I have alot of autistic traits (with ADD diagnosed in childhood), and all these you mention are things I would love to do and I think I would be good at it, especially being an artist and a homeschooling mother. The problem I see the most in my life is How to get organised, socially, temporally and money wise... I know I have SO MUCH to offer to the world but I don’t know HOW, and that is extremely frustrating.

[@danielleohallisey4218]

I'm 63 years old and was told by a young friend on the spectrum recently that "of course you know how it feels to be on the spectrum in a world full of "normies." I had no idea. So, I asked my therapist if she thought I was on the spectrum and she just shrugged and said, "Yeah." Oh. It's amazing how I'd grown used to the idea that life is simply difficult, especially for me, and that there must be "something wrong with me" but now that I have an idea of what's going on, it's becoming easier to live with my differences. Thanks for putting out this informative material for women on the spectrum, and please keep up the good work!

[@ringdoorbell3223]

(Sharon Shneyer)Hi Danielle, I'm also 63 and didn't get diagnosed until I was 47 and then a few years later with ADHD. My late mother had it, as I can clearly see the similarities, but neither of my parents were alive when I got the results, they had both passed away 2 years earlier. I have had jobs in the past, but they never worked out. At one time I was on disability and hope too again. It is really hard being misunderstood, and having things not come out the way you want to. It also effects my writing. I didn't watch the video, but saved it and forwarded it to the person who runs my adult Asberger's support group.

[@galespressos]

Hi @Danielle In high school a counselor after several interviews and tests said I was borderline but because my IQ was put in the gifted range, the counselor decided not to give the label ASD as I should be able to manage, but also said the traits were on the spectrum. Life has been very rough after what I thought was a secure future, that I worked so hard to get to, kept falling through. I have trouble working on certain schedules and get stressed out and bent out, but if left to my own to manage myself when I have ups and down, then I can do well. Now very concerned but watching some of these videos has also helped me. I’m older middle aged as well. In trouble financially. Definitely need to find work that I can do. I ended up having many friends who were labeled autistic and usually felt better with them, like we could relate. Seeing some of these videos, I realize more about my situation. These videos are great, and I am also appreciating the helpful information.

[@galespressos]

How can we get this job? AI let you know! Seems worth looking into. Merchandiser. I am overseas and want to come back. Was in SanDiego. Problem is housing even if had the job. Also transport. Yes, very ridged schedule gets me quite sick too and seems pointless.

[@kathleenwildman9427]

I have someone very close to me on the spectrum. As a result of loving them and learning over the years I’ve come to spot it in people. Each person in the world is completely different but there are some traits you can see if you are looking. I now have to hold my tongue because not all people would appreciate me telling them that. I find it too bad because it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Anyway, enjoy getting to know the reasons behind the real you. There are many gifts. My loved one on the spectrum is my greatest gift and the person I most admire.

[@theresawolf109]

I'm 63 as well and suggested to my 23YO w/ Asperger that I thought I might be on the spectrum, he replied, "Well, duh."

[@angelcoops511]

My daughter is 22 and left college last year. She wants to work but doesn’t know what job to do. This was a great post and I will show this to her. She thinks she’s unemployable because of of being autistic and suffers anxiety ect badly. Thank you so much for this post it’s very uplifting and hope is out there for autistic people. ❤

[@lindaversil1121]

Does she want to work as a teachers assistant or paraprofessional in a school that pays good benefits? She might like that and a college education will lead to better pay.

[@lindaversil1121]

Also working in a school she will have weekends and holidays and summers off and public schools have good retirement and health plans and pay good

[@v.m.8472]

@@lindaversil1121 No, unbelievably teachers have very mean spirited groups that want to control and eliminate people with differences. If you are outside the group there is a lot of bullying. I am a teacher with a masters degree and experience but for anyone with anxiety, it is a terrible job.

[@lindaversil1121]

@@v.m.8472 I meant a teacher assistant in a preschool working with babies or little kids. I work in a Jewish school that has a preschool and baby room and I am an assistant in the baby room full time and love it. I relate to the babies and toddlers very well. And this school pays well.

[@alexac5001]

It is also important that she respects herself and doesn't overly adapt to a position. She is allowed to ask for help linked with autism. Otherwise as she gets older it will lead her to burn out. I was only diagnosed at 40 as autistic and my whole life i adapted so well to jobs! I even easily got jobs! But i was the modified neurotypical me like an actress and it has lead me to severe physical condition today: no noise tolerance tinitus severe anxiety chronic fatigue not knowibg who i am where are my true limits.. a scary place to be! But for 20 years i got jobs and looked normal to people and was independant.. to such a cost aside even when i was employed... i just didnt understand and wanted so badly to be normal and independant. So yes autistic people can be emplpyed but beforehand they need to know themselves and their limits!

[@brinjpn]

I am ADHD Autistic and I work at a library. I love it! 💖 I am surrounded by books all day and my collection of knowledge is useful. I still get anxious sometimes when I interact with people but it’s been mostly positive. I also do side work with Japanese musicians mostly doing PR, event scheduling, and marketing stuff.

[@abeycee7427]

Wow. The world of PR, event scheduling, and marketing seem like they would be hectic and chaotic. What is it like from your perspective doing that job?

[@kitsune0rei]

I would have loved to work in a library, but I could never get in and I wasn't sure enough I would like it enough to go back to college for a degree. I'm in Florida so they have an excess of senior citizens and others who volunteer at the library for free.

[@brinjpn]

@@abeycee7427 I like the science of data and communication so it’s amazing. It allows for creativity yet structure. It’s challenging but I enjoy it.

[@brinjpn]

@@kitsune0rei I don’t have a librarian degree, I have a dual bachelors in Marketing and East Asia Studies, so I am a librarian assistant. I specialize in working with teens in an urban setting. We do a lot more than books so it’s not a traditional library system.

[@papina54]

Lovely: librarian and pr. One job nurtures the latter (knowledge, creativity find better ways to communicate to sponsor events...). I personally would enjoy librarian, but with an hint of art labs for various age people (currently I am teaching in middle grade)

[@EmpressEris]

I stock shelves at a walmart. It's probably the worst job I've ever had. It's not even a social thing (well mostly, management is really bad). It's that the job is so mind-numbingly boring that I easily lose touch with my own body and I'm consumed in my thoughts. Not a good place to be with burnout.

[@amandagallagher9085]

35year old unemployed, struggling to understand why I'm undervalued and suffer burnout. Adding this to my searchable. Thank you!

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask

[@Alexia-rq3mj]

Thank you for this. Most people don't understand how hard it is for autistic people to find work. I worked in a restaurant before college as a hostess. It was the Worst job for me.Food service is awful. Customers complain all the time over things you have no control over.Waitresses get mad when you don't seat enough people in their section which is understandable because they rely on tips. What they didn't understand is a lot of people ask for a certain table. I melted down half way through the summer and quit It helped me realize I could never work with people. People can be the worst. I'm glad you found a job that works for you, Olivia.😀

[@sundaynightdinnerswithdebo945]

I'm sorry the FOH was not the right fit. It's not a great place for those of us on the spectrum. However, BOH, (in the kitchen for those who haven't worked in the industry) is a great place to work for us. Kitchens are VERY inclusive....no one cares who you are, or how you are, just that you can do the work. And much of kitchen work is very organized and repetitive, which works well for many of us. And kitchen folk are the kindest, nicest, most interesting folks you can ever spend 10 hours a day with, day in day out.

[@jennywarren]

All of my jobs have been in food service. I am trying to build my resume up with more art based work considering that I have a bachelor's in visual art.

[@mama2kittyfubb]

After struggling with retail jobs, my daughter found success with a school district. She needs structure (M-F & 30 hrs/wk) and has the same task every day. The bonus is she gets health insurance, sick/vacation days, and works on a school calendar so gets all the holidays and school breaks off including summer. The breaks give her the time needed so she doesn't burn out and a consistent pay check. Retail was just all over the place and did so much damage to her mentally. This may not work for everyone but this has been wonderful for her confidence and sense of independence. Your job sounds amazing, best of luck to you!

[@JennaGetsCreative]

Can I ask what job she's doing in the school district? I'm 34, autistic, and back to school now that my own daughter is in school. I'm doing a 2-year office admin accounting program and my sister has suggested working in a school office.

[@ThanksHermione]

I'm curious to know what her job is too.

[@kimyarrington4724]

I'm a 32 year old autistic and I work for my local school district as a para educator. The school year schedule has been my life savor as far as being able to keep a job. Having Summers off is awesome. I work part time but get full time benefits. The only thing that is challenging about this job is the sensory overload from working with kids. I'm out at recess with kindergarten-5th graders for 3.5 hours a day and seeing 400+ kids a day is very overwhelming. I still have shutdowns quite often, but I'm able to use my sick leave for mental health days.

[@mama2kittyfubb]

She works as a child nutrition assistant (cafeteria). It's a physical job (on her feet & lifting heavy items) but her task are relatively the same each day. She's been at this job longer than any of her retail jobs so she's very happy about that. For her, she has to know how her day is going to go so she doesn't have any panic attacks or meltdowns.

[@mama2kittyfubb]

@@JennaGetsCreative School districts have all kinds of part-time jobs that can really work for you when your child is in school. I highly recommend you check out your local school district!

[@MichelWingArtist]

I loved this video! It reminded me that one of the best jobs I ever had was as a janitor at a tattoo parlor. I went in twice a week, sometime before the parlor opened, and cleaned, stocked all the supplies, laundered and folded the towels, and set up the work stations for the day. I worked alone, I got to organize the shop, I’ve always loved doing laundry (especially towels!), and it felt so good to leave it all perfect behind me. What was funny was that I had a master’s degree in international studies…so on the one hand, I was completely underemployed….but I was also completely happy. There was no stress or anxiety like I usually have with aa job. I am so glad you found this work. 😊

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@expatiate1]

I'm 60 and I'm autistic and I'm self employed. I clean houses and businesses. So my schedule is fixed but not rigid and I made the schedule. My child who is 32 and autistic is the business manager for a medical office. No autistic person is like another...even autistic twins are different. Your job would be too boring for me. So each person needs to find where they belong

[@UndeadPigeon]

The unfortunate part of trying to do merchandising (because I've looked into a few jobs doing so) is that you have to travel from store to store...it's kinda hard for those of us that don't drive. It sucks a lot because it sounds like a job I truly wouldn't mind doing. 😔

[@MusicGirl114]

Also, many merchandizing jobs require you to be physically capable to lift 50lbs ore more. :(

[@UndeadPigeon]

@@MusicGirl114 And I have noodle arms and can barely lift 50 pounds if that 😭

[@coyoteinthepool]

Many large stores such as Walmart have overnight stock personel. It isn't perfect, because you do have supervisors and customers around you (if the store is open 24hrs), but in theory/sometimes you can wear your own clothes, the store is pretty deserted, and you just are left alone to stock the shelves. You do have a regular schedule, and less autonomy but it's a similar idea.

[@Littlebearito]

I’m self-diagnosed and in the process of getting a formal diagnosis, and I work in a warehouse packing food boxes and it’s really nice to be able to tune out everything with music! Sometimes it’s overstimulating but being able to leave work at work is amazing 🥰

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@msushi98]

@@chirstopherj Sir you are a *stranger* on the internet - maybe stop heckling these ppl and trying to find out about their location/personal info (edit: also referring to your other comment thread on this vid)

[@purpleflowers92]

@@chirstopherj Live people alone. Your a stranger please just stop harassing people.

[@Jay-uo4el]

I’m autistic and I work as a massage therapist! Anatomy and the body as a whole is a special interest, but I knew I could never take the high stress work of a nurse or doctor. I get to be in a softly lit room and wear clothes I find comfy that are still professional. Yes, there’s the socialization aspect but there’s a BIG difference between interacting with 3-5 people a day one on one (some of whom are silent the whole time!) and doing even an office job where you have to talk to lots of coworkers in a brightly lit office. Not that an office job can’t work, my best friend is also autistic and has an office job and likes to pretend they’re in a tv show set in an office. Like you said though, a lot of us find office environments really difficult Anyway thank you for this video! I don’t see this discussed often!

[@dorothyandrews8872]

I am happy for you see my notes in a post I did Angela Coups above

[@wiegraf9009]

Great choice!

[@elizabethplant3807]

MT here too - studied 1 year of manual therapy at osteopathic college as well and love nerding through anatomy knowledge, trigger points, kinetic chains etc. :)

[@mxinwei]

I see a MT regularly and she's my favourite. She's in tune with me and is okay with not being chatty. I feel super safe with her 🥰 All my jobs have been remote (bless), with the exception of an internship at college, though most times I spent in front of a computer with little socializing. My supervisors went on a month-long vacation after I got hired and they seemed to be okay with leaving and entrusting me since the work got done (with nothing broken).

[@chrispybacon3]

I also work in an office BUT I do mostly data entry work all the day, with little bits of phone communication in the last 1-2 hours. I also use my Loop earplugs whenever the noise is overstimulating and make a point of going for a daily walk on my lunch break - great to stretch thy legs and destimulate 🤗

[@draculaissus6120]

I’m 20 and haven’t had a job yet because of all my anxiety towards working conditions (specifically knowing I can’t control much) and my mom is finally forcing me to get a job this summer. Last night after doing a deep dive on your channel (and a suspicion since middle school) I believe that I may be autistic and plan to bring it up to my therapist this week. Your channel has been so validating for me as it has made so much in my life make sense. Thank you for all that you do and giving me the resources/language to finally bring it up to my therapist after constantly pushing the idea back.

[@ronnronn55]

Congratulations. You're finding you way toward what will work for you and you along. :)

[@cory99998]

Honestly it sucks so much to have profitable talents but an inability to capitalize on them. I think I could probably manage as a programmer as it's something that's a strong skill for me, however I feel like I would have to work well below my skill level to not be stressed and anxious all the time. I always run into the same problem of burning hot, and then burning out which makes holding down a job very difficult. Fortunately this works pretty well in my self employed career as a game designer as I can work at my own pace and deliver product in bulk (big update or new game launch every few months or couple of years) and that works well, but if you stuck me in a professional work environment doing that I think I would have to quit unless it was a cakewalk of a job. It's also super invalidating feeling as people around you think you're lazy despite you mentally running laps around them. I have a lot of skills due to special interest congruence, but my delivery is a handful of projects a year rather than a 9 to 5 weekly delivery type of job.

[@cammie49]

I deliver auto parts to mechanics three days a week. I’m diagnosed ADHD and likely on the spectrum. I don’t last long at most jobs due to social aspects. I love that I can control my environment ie the car I drive…my music, my food, my temperature, etc. There is very little social interaction required. Most mechanics & drivers are men so much easier to communicate (no trying to understand women hinting). Being able to constantly move is great for ADHD. Being able to constantly hum is great for my autism. I have an extremely good mental map so I can design the best route in my head for any combo of deliveries that come up. I live in a scenic area with forests, farms, fields and streams…and I enjoy the beauty of 4 seasons in New England. When not delivering, I stock shelves with auto parts by part number which is fun because it’s organizing and the stockroom/warehouse is quiet. In my area, many mechanics works in barns out in the woods on dirt roads so basically zero traffic! I love that I can wear the company Tshirt n jeans and nobody cares that I don’t wear makeup or forget to brush my hair.

[@cattime2044]

Medical coding. You can work remotely (from home) your entire career and you’re just reading code sets and following rules all day. Bonus points if your *special interest* or passion is anatomy and physiology and other aspects of healthcare.

[@coolchameleon21]

i wanted to do this, but apparently it’s almost impossible to get hired now because the field is so oversaturated :(

[@kelseychow5415]

This might not work for autistic people who have adhd too

[@surlespasdondine]

I just realized that one reason I like my job as a teacheri is that I do not really have to socialize. That sounds weird, but when you think about it, you are on your own a lot, and you talk to students, in your role as a teacher, but not as much to adults, so it's different from masking. It's less tiring for me than to talk with adults.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@t.terrell7037]

What grade and subject do you teach?

[@Treezp1]

I worked as a Dogwalker for a Pet Care company for a few years. It was a great job for me - I love most animals, I got outside into Nature, flexible hours, I could get cover from others if I or my son was sick. Hoping to get back to it soon - got some physical health issues at the moment. Thanks Olivia! It's great that lots of things are going well for you! 🙂❤T

[@treesapgrl]

This is what I do. I own my own pet sitting business; I have for 15 years, and, at 40, I rather recently realized I'm autistic. I'm glad you had a pawsitive experience, too! 💜

[@Treezp1]

@@treesapgrl 🙂🐶🐕🐈?🦏?!🙂❤T

[@treesapgrl]

@@Treezp1 OMGosh I just realized your handle also starts with Tree... this is freaking wild.

[@Treezp1]

@@treesapgrl I know 🙂 I noticed the similarity a while ago. At first I thought it might be a covert 'message' from someone 🙂 but figured out it was just coincidence. All the best ❤ Theresa

[@treesapgrl]

@@Treezp1LOL nope. My name is Amber, and since fossilized tree-sap is Amber, my BFF's mom dubbed me Treesapgrl back in the 90's and it's been my name online ever since. Pleased to meet you, Theresa!

[@emmabourke2791]

I work in the field of vocational rehabilitation. We provide supportive employment to people with disabilities who struggle to maintain a job. Across America states vary in the extent of these sorts of programs, but if anyone reading this is struggling to maintain a job due to a disability, look into vocational rehabilitation programs. Keywords to search for in your area: supportive employment, job coaching, vocational rehabilitation, on the job training, sourceamerica, CARF, abilityone, WIOA

[@Mielke-bs1dh]

Good for you that you have a job that you like. Unfortunately, most state vocational rehabilitation programs do not offer any services for neurodivergent people. The services that they do offer, if, like me, you happen to be classified as disabled by the Social Security Administration, are inadequate as the stated goal of VR programs is any job available at minimum wage. The idea of vocational rehabilitation is wonderful, but the actual implementation is highly political and fails to employ people at living wages. If you can find the state-by-state or regional office outcome stats online (they are hard to locate) the numbers are unfortunately abysmal.

[@rachaelb9164]

My son has autism and cognitive delays. He works as a lot attendant at Home Depot which allows him to walk around outside and work off excess energy. He also has superficial social interactions with customers and is able to follow safe lifting rules. My wife was diagnosed with autism and ADHD as an adult and she works as a personal support worker for adults with disabilities. She creates her own schedule and works when she can on a one on one basis teaching them basic living skills and ensures their needs are being met. She can work with just one client or several depending on what she wants. I personally was officially diagnosed with ADHD though I have strong suspicions that I may also be on the spectrum. I don’t have as many of the hypersensitivity issues but struggle with social interactions and feeling my own emotions. I’m an X-ray tech at a hospital. It allows me to get up and walk around a lot and every day is different from the next. Not a good career if you have sensory issues or a strong gag reflex though lol. I had to do desk work calling patients at the beginning of the Covid pandemic and it was pure torture to my soul. I detest desk work and hate making phone calls. It would be great if there were more talent scouts that would match jobs to people on the spectrum based off of their strengths and needs. Everyone is so different.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@pendafen7405]

Interesting. One wonders whether propriocetion, in the lifting of weight (boxes, etc.), is helpful to assuage anxious feelings he may have on the job? Proprioception really helps autistic people to feel more secure.

[@wretchedfamily]

A close relative of mine used to be a traveling merchandiser in Nebraska for Nestle products, she only changed job because she moved out of state. Lots of driving but alone and very independent most of the time. She was also dealing with customers and got to the point where she made and wore a shirt that said sorry, i don’t work here and she’d point at it if anyone started talking to her lol😂

[@OliviaHops]

I need to make a replica of this shirt 😂

[@stuartchapman5171]

I've worked mostly freelance, or for an agency. This way I don't have to get involved too much with other colleagues. I also do a lot of driving. Mostly on my own. I have very brief customer interactions. Occasionally I have to share the driving or hang around with staff waiting to leave on an assignment. This is difficult. Thankfully it's rare and I can manage it. Self employment is difficult for me though, my ADHD really struggles with the administration and Tax. Really struggles.

[@banovsky]

@@stuartchapman5171You are so not alone in the tax thing. Have a solution yet?

[@stuartchapman5171]

@@banovsky no sorry.

[@oromhal]

Such a helpful video (and funny at the same time)! Love your impression of grumpy and super apologetic people, ahah

[@peanutgallery1227]

🎉 I learned about this type of job precisely because of the "soda stockers" at the grocery store, and have definitely considered looking into it. However, I didn't recognize that so many jobs like this might exist, and be categorized as "merchandising". Very helpful! 👍 It's especially enticing any time you can make your own hours/avoid busy times, and have the freedom to come and go as needed. I really appreciate that you didn't say, "If I can do it, ANYONE can." If I had a dollar for every time someone said this ~ and was Wrong, I would definitely not need a job... This was excellent. Thank you. SO glad you are enjoying your work now!

[@lauram8694]

I have not been diagnosed as on the spectrum, but have a son & grandson on the spectrum. I am almost 61 and see no reason to be diagnosed now. I have always been defined as OCD or being anal and just always accepted that for what it was. I find this channel very uplifting and informative. Glad that someone finally addressed females on the spectrum, the masking, how well we disguise things and the eventual crash & burn we experience when we become over stimulated/tired. Great work Olivia!

[@Wiz.37083]

I can relate...also self diagnosed, in my 60s...

[@thecompletebasquiat6872]

Totally agree with your job choice, stocking shelves, or otherwise store organization whereby you do not have to socially interact is a great job for someone on the spectrum. In general, for Aspies, self-employment work related to a special interest is the best option for all autistics, but it can be hard to make enough money to thrive.

[@meriadocbrandybuck9833]

Pray for me please, all of you. I have my adult assessment for autism on Friday after nearly a year of waiting. Also, I work in a similar situation. I work in inventory for a high tech factory. There is only 1 other person in my area and it is behind a locked door I control badge access to. I basically created the entire department out of 2 texts and a sticky note. And I helped hire a person (another friend of mine with Aspergers) so it meshes perfectly. Everything has structured hyper specific instructions and routine. We also have 4 storage rooms and both of us will happily leave to another room to give the other person space.

[@abbyanderson3679]

Good luck

[@meriadocbrandybuck9833]

@@abbyanderson3679 thank you! I so appreciate it! In the intake the psychiatrist agreed with me that my first diagnosis was wrong which seems really positive to me.

[@JD96893]

Damn I wish I could work there lol. Good luck on your assessment.

[@nancysmith3400]

You made it this far in life and sounds like the Force is with you. Your prayers are working. All is well. And whatever comes your way is going to be a Blessing designed perfectly for you. Love will guide the way.😊

[@treesapgrl]

Prayers up!

[@lunarphoenixforyourface]

I'm 20 years older than you and no diagnosis yet. But I love your advice, and personality too. Thanks for the video! ❤️

[@corbenhavener7531]

In the world of productivity, the business world too often doesn’t have much grace for what’s going on in our minds, autistic or otherwise. I’ve recently reached a point where I feel like I have nothing left to get on my job. I picked up substitute teaching at my local school district and it’s refreshing. I’m technically working 2 jobs right now but I feel like at default, I have always found myself teaching others things. I may have hid from it in a while but sometimes you’ve got life is telling you. I feel like I’ve got education in my blood I should embrace it.

[@thejuanderful]

Thank you Olivia for speaking on such an important topic. I worked for twenty years as a SCUBA diver at an organic fish farm. Being underwater in almost complete silence was amazing; interacting with the fish and seals etc, and discovering "new to me" creatures on a daily basis. Unfortunately above the surface the job got noisier and noisier with diesel compressors and generators. Then I got promoted to supervisor where I started to get bullied for being neurodivergent by one of my crew. I discovered I am autistic while trying to figure out what was happening, as I crashed and burned out from anxiety two years ago at age 46. I think a troubleshooting job would be good for me. Maybe building maintenance? Maybe something outside? I hate being stuck indoors with artificial lights because most buildings have sick air and reverberate chaotic noise. Right now I work in a warehouse, building a dairy route for a delivery driver. It's like playing tetris in a freezer. I have a large window to complete the work, it just has to be ready by the time the driver shows up. The fans are noisy but my noise cancelling headphones playing music eliminates that issue. It's not a living wage but it buys food and I enjoy it. I used to do bread merchandising in supermarkets, like Walmart and such. It was a daily job and long heavy work which caused me sleep deprivation, but I could do it at my own pace. Unfortunately some of these big companies keep taking more and more money away from the drivers which means I was overworked and underpaid and I couldn't maintain that pace. If school had been able to accommodate my needs I think I might have been an astrophysicist or something. I love unraveling scientific mysteries and exploring the unknown. I find the very nature of our Universe to be endlessly fascinating. Fact is we still don't know what matter is, what gravity is, or what consciousness is! We can describe how they behave but not why! This is amazing to me and I keep doing experiments at my own level to learn more.

[@nightyew2160]

I am amazed that you saw seals at an organic fish farm. I am curious about the scientific experiments you run. Have you come up with any that would test why things work the way they do rather than how? I always thought the why was more in the purview of philosophy rather than science.

[@thejuanderful]

@@nightyew2160 Organic fish farms are actually vibrant artificial reefs full of sea life. Many smaller fish use the structure to hide from predators. Which brings the predators. We had one seal that was able to sneak instead the main protective enclosure. He would play with us while we completed our work. As for experiments. It's more about a philosophy of setting up parameters to test things. I haven't recorded anything, it's more about personal understanding and growth. I am constantly trying to understand the "why". Philosophy and science are both trying to understand the nature of our Universe and I think they make great partners.

[@recoveringsoul755]

I loved reading your comment, how you went from job things to higher mysteries of the universe. I used to think maybe I could work for NASA or something looking for life on other planets. I loved looking at the stars,and in addition to college courses in Math,Computer science, I also took a lot of Astronomy classes. But FINISHING anything seem elusive to me, I don't like asking for help, so nothing happened. Never graduated, etc. BUt still cannot help but wonder about these things, like String Theory and all the rest. It's that middle of the road survival stuff that eludes me. Office politics, ugh. I think I'd be able to get along fine if I had a Replicator like in Star Trek, for food and small items like clothing. And a transporter if absolutely necessary. And access to a Holodeck for when I want to travel safely or be around safe people.

[@thejuanderful]

@@recoveringsoul755 Thanks for sharing. I had a similar experience with school. I was never able to do any homework in high school. Despite that I passed all my courses with relative ease, except social studies, so they didn't let me graduate. I am reminded of Albert Einsteins experience with high school. Our current system is not designed to educate people based on how they learn. Quantum mechanics and astrophysics are something I pursue for fun. I don't agree with string theory but it's neat to think about. Listening to them talk about the latest discoveries of the proton is fascinating. Our three quark model is inaccurate and it turns out there is a lot more going on inside protons. I agree with you on Star Trek. A replicator and holodeck and I feel like I can avoid all the trauma our society causes me!

[@t.terrell7037]

I love your comment and finding if fascinating that I keep seeing the same scenario in comments….people hit middle age and at some point “burn out” and find that they simply can’t continue in the line of work they’ve e been doing, some for over 10-15 years. What is happening to us, at that point to cause the sudden revelation? I’ve got a. Masters degree but the only job I can do comfortably without stress pays very little? How do you live then? Where’s the balance in that scenario? 😢

[@sarahmoi5677]

It is really nice to hear you talk about not having a rigid schedule but structuring it in a way that works for you. I have a job where my schedule varies from days to months but once I’m there I follow the same steps for a successful day. It makes it so I don’t feel bored but I feel safe in having a routine at work. Also, once I leave work I am done, I don’t bring it home with me which is so good for my mental health as well, I feel.

[@michalsummers1523]

I had a merchandising job like this in pet stores and I can testify that it was a stellar job for autistic people! Now that I’m pretty sure I am (age 37), it totally makes sense why that kind of a job suited me so well. If I just woke up one day and had inexplicable anxiety or the weather for driving was bad, I could just reschedule the day’s tasks! And I loved being able to interact with people and their animals. I got paid in doggie kisses as well as money:) And one of my special interests is pet care so I got to help others care for their furry friends!

[@myeshiamarshall2630]

I found peace at delivery packages and no contact with people. It pays less but I still keep going and happy. It keeps me in shape.

[@octoberdawn1087]

You literally have my old ass up in the middle of the night searching for jobs with American greetings. My anxiety with this is having to drive-through the city. But it reminds me of jobs I was able to actually have when I was younger. Get the initial training process over with, and then go fly solo. This is actually fantastic advice. Granted I'm in my forties and I've really feel like I'm falling apart at this point, but this is something I definitely should have started when I was younger. I actually remember other people that struggled with keeping a job recommending this to me and I didn't put 2 and 2 together. You can utilize scripting abilities whenever customers come up to you. That "kill 'em with kindness" thing... Great video. Congrats and thanks for sharing.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask

[@bricksfeathers5423]

A friend of mine did this job when her kids were in pre-school & kindergarten. She liked it because it could work around their schedule and even if they got sick.

[@OliviaHops]

Exactly!

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@de72486]

I’m autistic and I work as a wire cutter/cable assembler! I am grateful for my job. My coworkers and managers are very comforting and helpful. Especially my manager. He has allowed me to talk with him and made me feel better very quickly. I work in a respectable and clean building with engineers and very smart people! I enjoy it greatly. The noise can deeeefinitely overstimulate me and many days I twitch and can’t control my face and neck from moving but I accept myself and no one cares. 😆❤️

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@marynordseth2788]

50-60 years' post diagnosis, I'm over-stimulated at bedtime, (facial/neck twitching). Maybe I'll tell my M.D. doc about my Autism.

[@chirstopherj]

@@marynordseth2788 ♥

[@rissachi93]

Merchandising is a great job! I’ve been merchandising plants in a garden center for 3 years. It’s such a blessing, I never thought I’d find a job I enjoyed and be able to work comfortably.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@MusicGirl114]

Do merchandizing plants require heavy lifting? Thank you!

[@rissachi93]

@@MusicGirl114 Yes, not every day but at times there are heavy plants and trees that need to be moved.

[@ChantalM3]

@@rissachi93 How did you get your job?

[@rissachi93]

@@ChantalM3 By searching for merchandising jobs on google or indeed. The title will most likely be garden center merchandiser. Usually Lowes, Home Depot, or Walmart look for merchandisers but you’ll most likely be hired by a separate company that sends you to one of those stores. The best time to land a job is in the spring or close to Christmas time.

[@OtakuDYT]

Its great that you found something, I worked retail for quite some time until I fell over and did enjoy merchanidising for sure, but that job still left me empty inside. I wish there was some way to mass try a whole bunch of jobs and see what fits us all the best 😆

[@danssaddimple9133]

glad you found a suitable job for you! 👍✨ i had a similar job in a clothing store but i didn't really like it (i'm also autistic). i thought the days were too boring and understimulating, i guess i need a little bit of change to keep me motivated. i currently work as a personal assistant for disabled people. i help them with everyday tasks such as cleaning and cooking and i've enjoyed it so far. i love to help people and i'm actually starting my social work studies next year. the only problem is that i'm so sensitive and start crying easily if people yell at me. i hope i'll get over my fears since that might become a problem in my future jobs 😩

[@MusicGirl114]

Hello, do people who help disabled adults have to be able to drive and have to be able to lift heavy weights? Thanks!

[@annemiedielis9245]

I'm 69 and psychologist. I can very rapidly analyse a situation and with my knowlegde of psychology i'm very good in my job. I know what people are feeling but i am able to set bounderies in my empathy. I have years that i was exhausted and then i stopped my job on regular basis. Now i can work for 2 days with the pensionmoney i have. When i was exhausted of seeing people i worked in factories for a conveyor belt job. it cleared my head and a few years later i continue to be a psychologist.It was not easy.

[@randidaeger157]

I so enjoy listening to you. I am 100% positive I am on the spectrum but trying to tell people is nearly impossible. They all get this look and start shaking their heads like I’m an idiot for self-diagnosing. WTH? If I don’t know myself who does? So I just grit my teeth and enjoy learning the why’s of what I have been living with my whole life. I’m not broken, after all….thank God and you Ms. Hops.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@steben3318]

@@chirstopherj Are you a con-artist or a predator? Forgive me if I'm wrong and I hope I am but I would like to warn more trusting people than I that my alarm bells are ringing LOUD. If this man befriends you / gains your trust and then asks you for money for any sob story then please don't fall for it. I would love to explain the 4 reasons why I feel this, so that others can see why I feel this way but that would also give this alleged doctor a heads up on what he's doing wrong. Love your video Olivia, thank you for being 'out there'.

[@the.nerdy.mermaid]

Olivia! It is so interesting that I came across this video when I did. I was just looking for job opportunities and ran across a merchandiser opening for Hallmark. I said, hey! That sounds perfect for me! I won’t actually be able to work for a few more years (my youngest starts kindergarten then), but I’m so glad that I now know what to look for when that time comes! I also love cleaning and organizing and hospitality setting and might start a cleaning and organizing business in the future. Love your channel! ❤

[@spinthepickle1244]

As long as you like touch, massage therapy is a great job. Interacting with people is one-oon-one (and you can largely control how much talking goes on), you can control all the sensory input in the treatment room (light level, sound, decor), it's a combination of analysis and creativity, and it's physical work. If you work for yourself you have to do the marketing, but there are lots of places you can work that will do that for you. There are lots of environments to work in from medical settings to spas and all the places in between. The type of place you work determines how flexible your schedule is. Full time work for a massage therapist is 25 hours of massage a week (typically the only time you are paid for). Depending on place of employment, you might spend other time on laundry, SOAP notes, cleaning, research, etc.

[@spinthepickle1244]

I am not autistic (my son is, which is why I'm here), but I went to school with an autistic gentleman. I was super impressed by how seriously he took every session and practice. Personally, I became a therapist because of a sensory disorder and the massage room is an oasis of peace for me. It's also nice for my ADHD, as I find there is enough change every session, that I don't get bored and stay engaged.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@jennaswift1336]

I am almost 25 and have worked in customer service since I was 17 and absolutely hated it, it was so draining and customers could be so rude. I now work in a hospital lab away from direct patient contact and it is so much better. It just took me a while to get used to my coworkers, but it’s the best job I’ve ever had.

[@jaeline9352]

I'm 22, and I just graduated from college. I never had part time jobs during my college years. I had access for free education that is managed by the Gov't funded from the taxpayers money. My parents already provided me everything that I need, and they wanted me to focus on my studies. But some part of me were jealous to my other peers who can both work and study. But even if I wanted to, there's no way I can hold a job properly like every normal persons. I have slow brain processing, I am clumsy. And I get overwhelmed easily when I'm sensory overloaded.

[@madisonmunro7299]

I've seriously been struggling finding and keeping a job because of anxiety. Every single job I've tried recently I have been overwhelmed by social anxiety and have to quit after a couple shifts. I'm not yet diagnosed with autism but I seriously am suspecting and lately I've been so caught up by thinking I'll never be able to work job. I'm glad to hear your experience and really gives me hope I'll be able to find something.

[@MusicGirl114]

Do you have to have an official diagnosis of autism to be able to reach out to your local Vocational Rehabilitation? Good luck with your job search!!

[@aulisarinili7297]

I feel you.... ah

[@j8kz96]

I had a similar transition into VM after burning out from an office-based role in media which I really loved, realising I'm Autistic (and getting fired from a similar position after 3 weeks) and picking up a retail role in an interior design store to tide me over. Immediately they were impressed with how quickly i picked up things like folding the textiles and getting the proportions right consistently on the first go so I'm getting tasked more that way and I genuinely am fulfilled by having the short (albeit scripted) interactions with customers and helping them solve an issue compared with the pressure of developing the perfect depth of shallow 'storyline' for office chit chat.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@MusicGirl114]

Can you please define what you mean by VM? I am searching for a role for a nonverbal autistic person. Thank you.

[@ireneschultz4604]

But how on earth do you survive on working only 6-10 hours a week?!?! I’d love to work a flexible job that caters to my needs but I have bills to pay!!!

[@girlygirl1890]

@irene Exactly. Actually, 6-10 hours a week is not really a job to sustain any bills. It's just a job to say you "have a job."

[@hurricanerae]

I will second that Merchandising is a great job for Autistic people. A self-diagnosed Autistic friend helped me get a few Merchandising jobs when I was looking for additional work. She loves it and works essentially full-time 30-40 hours a week and has been doing it for many years. I only did it for a handful of years and part-time, but it was a great job. I'll also share a few other jobs I've had/have that may be good for other Autistic people. Maintenance Jobs - I worked in exhibits and building maintenance for a couple years at a children's science museum. Though the hours were strict and demanding, I had freedom to prioritize when there wasn't an emergency repair to do, and I was not closely supervised once trained, so I could take brakes whenever as long as I got the work done. My department was small (3 people max plus some volunteers), so I worked alone allot or I worked with other mechanical minded people who I got along with well. And though I often had to do repairs while the museum was full and busy, I had no responsibility to answer guest questions. Most of them ignored me anyway once they realized what I was doing. I usually didn't feel the need to block out noise, but a good pair of ear plugs would do the trick if it bothered me. Building Managers and Maintenance often work alone and stay focused on their task. You have to coordinate with others, work with vendors, and hire contractors etc., but the bulk of your time is problem solving alone. Specialty Retail - I know what you're thinking. "Retail? Really?" No. SPECIALTY RETAIL. Specialty retail is working in a small or specialized retail store. Examples of where I worked are a Leather Crafting store and an Adult Novelties/Sex Product store. If you can make the specialty your special interest and become really knowledgeable and passionate about it, you'll find you basically get paid to talk to and teach people about a special interest. At specialty stores, customers tend to really WANT knowledge on the products and will appreciate all that knowledge you have learned. You just have to practice knowing when to stop talking/teaching and ask "Should I ring this up for you?" Lol. If you are in a hell loop of retail jobs, jumping to specialty retail may be a way to make work more interesting and fulfilling. I currently work as a Technical Director/Designer at a community theatre. It's really a perfect fit for me with my combination of creative and technical skills. How being Autistic fits and doesn't fit the job and how I have leveraged my Autistic strengths to reduce pressure on my weaknesses is probably an entire video on its own so I won't go into it here. But I'm sharing to let other Autistic people know that fulfilling employment is not an impossibility. It just may take you longer to get there.

[@holliestamps9206]

Thank you for sharing this info. It's always really insightful for me to hear your thoughts. My oldest daughter is autistic and we enjoy listening to and watching your content and perspective. I love it when she nods and agrees with you. Her whole face lights up and I can see how empowering and inspiring it is for her to see you on youtube discussing feelings, thoughts and ideas that she shares.

[@leanzadoodles5354]

I’ve been burnt out by my job as a graphic designer. I love the work, it’s work from home, and my boss is very flexible and allows me certain accommodations. But I still get overwhelmed at the occasional busy schedule, meetings, and creative block. I’ve been thinking about getting a job like that where I just have to organize things like stocking shelves, packaging stuff, makings beds, or even cleaning. I really like the idea of a repetitive job where I can just turn off my brain and be on autopilot. Plus I do find a lot of joy in organizing things. My biggest concern about those types of jobs, however, is that the salary tends to be on the lower end since they are relatively easy. I’d love to know if anyone else has experienced those kinds of jobs that pay relatively well? Anyways I’m glad you found a job that works for you! It’s definitely something I’ll keep in mind.

[@summersalix]

I'm Curious for the answer too

[@OliviaHops]

My pay is just over $16/hour in California. So if you worked full time, it would be about $2500/month. They also pay you for driving between your stores.

[@summersalix]

@@OliviaHops how many hours do u work at this job again? It sounds really awesome!

[@monicamac2122]

@@summersalix 6-10 hours per week :)

[@robbielynmccrary872]

i actually love being a cashier. it’s me by myself with different customers with different personalities. i make a game on how fast i can scan the items and i even organize the groceries. i just do terrible with coworkers because i hv to mask which i’m terrible at for longer periods. but you can do grocery delivery for spark/walmart. i did and i loved it. your a gig worker and an independent contractor

[@fwah23]

First video of yours I'm watching but I love the joy expressed so much. Also some mixture of envy and wow about how supportive the relationship with your mom sounds!

[@jessiemarie3147]

I used to work 911 dispatch and had several (like…half of the total) coworkers on the spectrum and they all excelled. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask

[@meowbrunei]

I work as a programmer now after changing jobs from doing health and safety. Choosing the right company with the right people around you is so important to be able to thrive in the workplace. It's especially important to be in the right profession which meets your intellectual and social needs as well. I've had a lot of difficulty in the past due to my autism, bipolar, and anxiety which took its toll. All of that led me to burnout by the end of my last job (it was during the first year of COVID). I am in a better place now since changing careers but it hasn't been easy, nevertheless, I think I have done fairly well all things considered.

[@joylox]

Have any advice for technical interviews? I'm fortunate that I'm able to do volunteer stuff right now and if it goes well, the said they'd be able to hire me properly, but I've wanted to get into a part time job working from home with a real tech company, but always fail those interviews because it's overwhelming and I'm terrified of having a meltdown on camera. I just can't deal with pressure, especially where my ADHD affects my working memory. I got accommodations for cheat sheets in university, but they don't really have anything that helps for talking to people, other than taking medication which is hit or miss for me.

[@t.terrell7037]

This sounds so much like me. How long did you have to train to transition to programming? How did you know you’d like it?

[@O-Demi]

I'm 29, I've known that I have ADHD for years, but when its symptoms have (somewhat) subsided in my mid-20s I realized that I also have always been autistic (ADHD had just been louder the whole time). I've been thinking about what jobs could suit a person like me, as I've come to realize it's not even a question of having a career per se, it is more about having a job at all. I could, of course, get a job as a sales manager like my best friend did (she recommended me for a vacancy they had and I even went to an interview), but chances are a few months in I would have a meltdown and a burnout. I don't see myself working in a highly competitive environment. I also don't see myself having any job where I would have to be extraverted and spend my energy on pleasing people. I have come to terms with the fact that our world expects everyone to 'succeed,' but an autistic/ADHD person should learn that success might just look different for us. I've always been fascinated with foreign languages and as a teen I thought, how wonderful it would be to work as a translator, only working with the given text and having to interact at max with your editor. This is the profession I got, with much effort, but I'm not making as much money as my peers (where I live this is not a very luctative profession, the pay is on par with the average or lower). I'm also thinking we could thrive (not in monetary terms) in such professions as a librarian, a kindergarten teacher, a writer, a professional caretaker, maybe a doctor or a researcher (when it's possible), a dog groomer, a zoo keeper, etc.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@TracysPlans]

I was a merchandiser for 12 years and loved it. I worked through SPAR and Nestle and made a good living out of it, travelled the whole state and a few neighboring states as needed (and with good compensation). I raised two of my daughters on that income and loved the flexibility that it provided.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@shelbybutler9714]

Most of my jobs have been in chaos, up until a few years ago. Invariably I took on the role of creating a functional system, either procedurally or organizationally. I just thought I was good at organization. I would get so overwhelmed by the chaos, that I would overhaul the place as a way to restore my sanity. Now, I work remotely for a company with established process flows, as a project manager of sorts. Sure, I have to deal with clients, but my presentations are scripted and via Teams; so, I can mask for an hour- no problem. My blood pressure has gone down, my sleep is better, and I am more financially stable than I ever was before. Becoming aware that I am on the Spectrum has been a game-changer for me. Thank you for these videos!

[@deilialewis8561]

This video is so helpful! I was diagnosed with autism a few months ago at age 25 and have been struggling with finding a job that works for me. I'm in the early stages of the hiring process at USPS to become a mail carrier, but I have some concerns about the long hours. Merchandising seems like it might be a perfect fit and I never thought of it. Thanks so much for sharing! And thanks to everyone else in the comments who shared the jobs that worked for them.

[@mares3841]

Part time Amazon may be good for you.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@noblestsavage1742]

I’m autistic not diagnosed until I was 47. I’m a scrub nurse in operating theatres. I love it, narrow attention, little smalltalk and the patients are asleep so I can’t upset them😉

[@johnorr8094]

When I was a kid, I used to spend time at the library where my mother worked. That's another low stress place to work.

[@kmcq692]

I think it’s great how at 13:30 you describe how all the NTs are hyperresponsive as either offended or apologetic. Who’s weirder? Us or them????

[@Sweetshaunna]

He he, amen

[@trinaq]

Thank you for this video, Olivia. It can be hard to determine a job which really suits you, and your advice is very helpful.

[@OliviaHops]

So glad it could be helpful! Thanks so much for watching!

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@carlgharis7948]

​@@OliviaHopswell I'm in a work camp in remote Alaska about half the year. I'm a seafood processor. Stated this in 2020. As this covid19 situation it was the only job available. And I've returned in 2021 2022 and 2023. It's a primarily male dominated industry however we have 20% female. Free food free lodging. And I get thier for $35. As my employer pays the flights I'm responsible for the baggage fee the $35 most every airline wants these days. And well as covid19 situation is under control it seems places that were shut down for 2/3 years are up and operating prior to the pandemic. So many different jobs available in Alaska in the summers. So you ( you people in general) can do what I do. Or now they have a verity of work again. And it seems many places will hire pretty much any able-bodied adult. So my suggestions is summers work dispatch up in Alaska.

[@carlgharis7948]

​@@OliviaHopsand yes we did have to be put on a medical base in Anchorage for 15 days in 2020 before we were allowed to proceed to work As the public health emergency act from the governor. We got paid for that. 2021 they checked vaccinations records and only had to be in medical for 24 hours. 2022 and 2023 we've went straight to work

[@carlgharis7948]

​@@OliviaHopsand my line of work pays ( okay) granted you save most of your money so you keep a lot more then your otherwise would in society. Am I rich. No however I'm certainly not at the food stamp office either. So all being said it's an idea

[@TheLordcasio]

My niece has special needs...it has as of yet to be diagnosed. I myself, suffer from some nervous/anxious behavior. Your video's give me hope. Keep on giving us hope.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@denisesmith4034]

Sounds like the ideal job for my son. He often rearranges shelves when we’re shopping. Not sure greeting cards would make sense to him, but I’d love it. Now I understand why all those sales and office management jobs ended in absolute disaster for me. I scored well on the entrance exams and I’m articulate, but it’s all masking. I could never handle the chaos. The random chatting with associates at the same time… just no! I can’t do it!

[@wendiwasden7088]

For my also ADHD people, she starts listing jobs around 6:43

[@KR-os6nn]

Thank you

[@nonyabizness956]

I love you so much for this, I've never heard of this job but I feel hopeful for the first time in years that I might be able to keep a job without feeling like I'm slowly dying inside. Everything you described is so much like me, even the part where you don't like strict schedules and need some leniency. You're awesome and you make me smile, I hope you're happy, and I hope everyone watching this can find happiness too, it's hard out here for all of us. ❤

[@ihaveanamebutimnottellingyou]

My aspiration is to be an archivist. I like organising things and I like spreadsheets. I volunteer one day a week, and it's my favourite day of the week. I'm just going to have to wait and see what I feel equipped to deal with after university.

[@nerdmommy7114]

Thank you for sharing this! I owned a small business a couple of years ago, it was fun because I was alone, I don’t have co-workers, I don’t have a rigid schedule, and I interact with people in person at least once a month. But I ended up getting burnt out because I became bored of the hustle. I wanted to do other things. I can’t read do any other hobbies, because I was so busy with the business. I really had a hard time managing my time and my boundaries. I am a workaholic if I want to work, and I am so lazy if I am just not feeling it. Then I am a mom, so there’s that another life outside of the business. The balance is so so so difficult and the number of roles I have to wear is overwhelming. (People will say, list this, schedule that, but the inner “happenings” of this kind of life with multiple hats to wear is overwhelming, and being overwhelmed because of that is a very autistic trait - which I realized a couple of years later. I thought there was something incredibly wrong with me, but it’s just really the explanation that my brain is wired differently.) But I enjoyed restocking and fixing my shelves on the stores I consigned with. It’s truly unexplainable why I love fixing stuff (even at stores I visit hahaha) So with what you are sharing here, I know merchandising will be a great job for me too. Thank you so much for sharing this!

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask

[@bizarre3228]

I’m 15 and me and my boyfriend (who i suspect is also autistic) have no clue what we’re gonna do for a job so this is super helpful! I’m considering art, photography, something to do with animals or being a ta for other disabled kids because I’d probably be able to understand them more

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@sweetlolitaChii]

I didn't realize that being a merchandiser was so flexible and didn't involve customer service. That's fantastic! I'm a utility and dishwasher at a retirement home dining hall, and I LOVE that every day is more or less the same. You do the same work (as long as you don't mind dirty dishes or drains/gross stuff and working with water), you rarely ever have to go to the front of house/dining area, you work totally alone, you work at your own pace, and you get to listen to stuff on your phone through wireless ear buds and tune out the restaurant bustle.

[@MentalAlchemy]

Misleading title. I was looking for a list of occupations good for autistic people.

[@user-dq2ym1nn9k]

you can read the comments

[@Hazel22858]

Thank you for the tip. I am glad you are liking your job! To add, I am a Licensed Massage Therapist and it is one of the only jobs I have been able to stay at without meltdowns etc.

[@divineatlasapparel]

You're wonderful! We are super similar. I've always thrived on my own and never last more than 2 years at any job. I fall into the perfectionism issue where I take on more and more and more and explode. I picked jobs where there would be zero human interaction because I'd freak out. Masking sucks- I'm only adhd diagnosed but I'm 100% certain all of my "quirks" and weirdness is mild autism. Though it isn't the most comfortable thing- we are sure some creative wonders. By the way any of you artistic wonders look into print on demand! You upload designs- you have no inventory or any out of pocket cost. ❤️ it ends up being passive income, once you set it up- the end. Marketing and that's pretty much it.

[@MusicGirl114]

Hello, I have a couple of questions if that is okay: 1. Can you please tell me which jobs have absolutely 0 (or very limited) social interaction? This is question is specifically for autistic adults who are nonverbal. 2. How many years did it take to set up your POD clothing business? Thanks!

[@b3stanga697]

I’m 65, still working, and an Aspie. I work as a mechanical designer/engineer. I have had 43 jobs in 45 years. Some jobs I couldn’t make it through the week and my longest was 9 1/2 years. I worked mostly on a contract basis. That allowed me not to be part of an organization. I always stayed an outsider. Working sometimes made me suicidal. I always had an adversarial relationship with bosses and managers. I could never put up with their BS. Fortunately there was always another job.

[@charlotteice5704]

I'm autistic and have ADHD (self diagnosed as of now) and I'm a technician in a small theatre, a roadhouse to be exact (a theatre without an esemble of its own), and it's a perfect fit. Theatre is among my special interests and I love the art itself, so it's perfect that I get to watch a different play almost every workday and get paid for it. I also love working with technology and creative work, both of which I get to do (the creative side is mostly lighting design for the odd amateur production every now and then). The irregular and often late hours actually work great for my brain and the best part by far is that I'm not the only "weird" person there and that communication is practical and direct.

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@annabradshaw213]

OMG as a kid, I had a lot of horses too, but I never really played with them. I just loved organizing them and putting them in order. Then I made a chart of all my horses in order on one axis and all my friends and family members on the other and forced them to rent/borrow my horses to play with so I could check them in and out on the chart. I had totally forgotten about that until now. :)

[@hersabbatical580]

I do this job too, only for a number of different clients...but YES it's the best job I've ever had. Starting when I want, working alone, keeping things orderly, and having minimal interaction with others. If I am very anxious or burning out I can just take a day or two off. I'm currently going through the diagnosis process and I've been nodding my way through this video

[@MusicGirl114]

All of the merchandizing jobs that I've found so far require the employee/applicant to be able to physically be able to lift/carry 50 or more lbs. Are there any merchandizing jobs that do not require this?

[@CL-mn1yq]

With a family on the spectrum, I feel fairly neuro typical... After years away from emotionally draining work and now as a full time family caregiver this sounds so appealing to me for PT work!

[@terciopelo]

I was an English Language teacher for almost 3 years and I loved it so much! I only started struggling once the pandemic started and we moved to online classes. Now I'm back in college so I work part time as a cleaner in a long term care home and I enjoy it as well. It's a straightforward, mindless job and now that I've been there for a couple of months I occasionally chat with some of the residents and other workers which is nice. I also just started working at a fast food place but I don't know if that's the right place for me, we'll see I guess.

[@PossumMedic]

Family greeting card beef! 😂 Congrats! Hope it's still going well! Thanks for the vid!

[@jennacathcart1157]

I haven’t had job since I was teenagers I get to tried because I had 6 open heart surgery and autism I just found out couple months ago my mom tell me about videos of you and this when I was tell had OCD I found out I have lost some thing has you then found out I have autism this why my mom saw this so funny thank you start KZbin videos help people like me

[@faeriefire6]

my situation sucks because im also physically disabled. so i feel like no matter what im screwed. things that would be great for my autism, sucks for my body, and vise versa :/

[@CreepyLittleThingy]

I got diagnosed at 28 and struggled to stay employed till I got into manufacturing, was with my first manufacturing job for 5 years (repetitive task working with one other person at a time, floor nearly empty because I switched to 2nd shift) and just switched to another that's training me to be a machinist while paying for me to go to school for engineering (weekend shift only 36 hrs. weekly but paid for 40 almost no one else there). Living in a place with a worker shortage helps too, as you get opportunities that would otherwise go to "more ideal candidates".

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask?

[@tjsiri72]

Thank you so much for posting this info. I just applied!!! I'm 50 and haven't worked in over 15 yrs. So much anxiety. I cried because I related to everything you said. We'll see what happens!

[@chirstopherj]

Hello, I hope you're safe over there? I hope this year brings happiness, prosperity, and love all over the world, I would love us to be good friends in honesty and in trust if you don't mind. I'm Doctor Christopher Johnson from San Francisco, California, where are you from if I may ask

[@nightyew2160]

Thank you, Olivia, for asking God to bless us on your videos. I really appreciate it.

[@katiemaloney4013]

I'm so happy for you!! I've just graduated from uni and I've been worrying a lot about how I will survive having a real job without getting really burnt out. I've been working as a childminder and find that it suits me because kids are so much more straight-forward than adults but it doesn't make enough money for me to support myself longterm.

[@learn.with.mrs.e]

This video is so helpful! I love learning about new job possibilities.

[@OliviaHops]

So glad you think it's helpful! That's my goal!! God Bless!

[@emeraldroberts1888]

This reminds me of this time, a long long time ago, my manager took me aside and said '' I want to talk to you about your attitude problem'' My response, '' What fucking attitude?!''

[@yesterdaydream]

I think having your mom help you start with the job is ideal...I'd feel infinitely more comfortable if I had a friend or someone I know showing me what to do at first. Instead of like, a strange new employer who probably doesn't know all the little things that make me panic. But I guess starting new things is one of those times we just gotta be brave? Seeing you be able to do it makes me hopeful. Also, I've been looking for some work with low-stakes, mindless tasks. I don't want to be responsible for anything too important, and my mind needs room to wander while I'm having to exist on someone else's timeline. I have a project-based job scoring tests online but it's not enough work to keep me alive anymore. UGH everything is so scary. But I'm glad to have seen this.

[@findyourpassion8722]

I have such a huge smile on my face seeing you happy talking about your new job that you enjoy.

[@ThanksHermione]

I struggle with job interviews despite practicing with multiple people who help with them professionally. I sound robotic instead of natural. Can't we just be ourselves without being outright rude and talk to you about our skills in doing the job? Instead, I'm preoccupied with pressure to do well and all these social cues I'm supposed to follow. Masking on the spectrum is tough for me and can come off as forced.

[@fieryhellkitten]

Same! I finally got my bachelors degree, yet I have put off looking for a different job because of the interview process.

[@Deathoutofhell]

I just recently came up with this theory for myself when it comes to flexibility/ridgidity. I am very ridgid about >how< things are done in terms of process. Alot more flexible, as to >what< is beeing done. Like you describe, even filling shelves in a supermarket can be a good experience, or other maybe monotonous, repetitive or detail focused tasks, that other people maybe tend to avoid. Then when it comes to >when< to do these things - I discover more and more, that I can be really inflexible due to overstimulation, hyperfocus issues and other autistic aspects of my experience. Thanks for your video. It was nice to reflect on. Maybe interresting to know, how you feel about this job a year later.

[@laura6796]

I'm going to show this to my almost 22 year old son. Very inspiring!

[@OliviaHops]

Wishing him the best of luck if he pursues this (and anything else)!